Work Measurement: Methods, Systems, and AI Automation
Work measurement is the application of techniques to establish the time for a qualified worker to carry out a specified task at a defined level of performance. AI video reduces measurement time from days to minutes.
Work measurement techniques compared
| Technique | Precision | Speed | Skill required | Observation needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTM-1 | Very high (TMU level) | Very slow | Certified analyst | Method description only |
| MTM-UAS / MOST | High | Fast | Trained analyst | Method description only |
| Stopwatch time study | High | Moderate | IE training | Live or video observation |
| Work sampling | Statistical (±5%) | Slow (many snapshots) | Basic training | Periodic live observation |
| Standard data | Moderate | Very fast | Experience | None (historical) |
| AI video (VidForgeX TMA) | Measured duration, no rating applied | Minutes | None (platform handles it) | Camera or screen recording |
Standard time calculation
The standard time formula used in industrial engineering:
Standard Time = Observed Time × Performance Rating × (1 + Allowance Factor)
Where Allowance Factor = fatigue allowance + personal needs + unavoidable delays (typically 15–25% total)
VidForgeX TMA measures observed time directly from video. Performance rating is not applied (the tool measures actual time, not normalized time) — which is appropriate for baseline measurement and monitoring but should be noted when comparing to MTM-derived standard times.
Work sampling with video
Traditional work sampling requires an observer to visit a workstation at random intervals and record what the worker is doing at that instant. Statistical significance requires 200–400 observations for ±5% accuracy at 95% confidence. VidForgeX TMA replaces snap observations with continuous video analysis, producing activity classifications for every second of recorded footage — equivalent to thousands of work sampling observations from a single shift.
ILO performance scale and rating
The International Labour Organization (ILO) uses a 0–100 performance scale where 75 = "BSI normal" (British Standard walking pace of 4 mph) and 100 = "incentive pace." North American practice typically uses a 0–100 scale where 100 = normal. Performance rating is the most contested element of time study — different certified analysts rating the same footage can vary by ±15%. AI-measured cycle time eliminates this variability by recording absolute duration.